Sukkot

Feast

of Tabernacles

Scripture: Leviticus 23:33-44

Numbers 29:12-39

Deuteronomy 31:10-13

John 7:37-43

History and Purpose: God told the people they should live in booths for seven days so that the generations would know that His people lived in booths when He brought them out of Egypt. Each Sukkoth the Jews build and dwell or eat in booths or temporary dwellings for seven days. It is a joyful celebration to remember God’s divine guidance and protection that goes beyond our human abilities!

Messianic Significance: Christ is our tabernacle or dwelling place (John 14:14). This holiday may represent the 1000-year reign of Christ on earth. Many believe Jesus was born during this Feast because He was born in the late fall in a "booth". Also, a number of Christians believe this is the date of Christ’s birth when He came to “tabernacle among us”. We should look forward expectantly to the Feast of Tabernacles, just as we look forward to the coming of the Messiah to bring His government, His Kingdom, and His laws (Micah. 4:1).

Celebration Ideas: This is one of the more exciting holidays for the kids. First, build a Sukkah. Maybe you can take a trip and go camping to celebrate with family and friends, or just in the back yard. At the least, maybe a make-shift tent in the basement or living room for the kids. Some families actually sleep in the Sukkah, while others eat meals and do devotions there only. You can create your own family traditions. Common decorations are leaves, branches and fruit ornaments. A great devotion is the fruit of the spirit passage beginning in Galatians 5:22. The fruit harvest was always taken during this time and used in celebrations so make sure and have fruit snacks handy inside your Sukkah. At the end of this week they praised God for the rain to help them bring in the harvest, and they asked for plentiful rain in the upcoming year. In the days of Jesus it was customary for the Priest to pour water out in front of the crowds to signify the yearly gift from God. It was at this time that Jesus spoke up in the temple (John7:37) and said that “I am that water”. Take a pitcher of water and a large bowl and place it in the Sukkah. Each night pour water into the bowl and drink it to remember that true, eternal living water comes from Christ our Lord. Also take turns saying this blessing, “Blessed are you, O Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us by Your commandments and has instructed us to dwell in the Sukkah.” Don’t forget to have lots of FUN! On the next page are some creative ideas on how to build a special Sukkah of your liking.